Japan Reaffirms Support for BD’s Reforms and Growth

Japanese Parliamentary Vice-Minister Ikuina Akiko today met with Foreign Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain at the Foreign Ministry in Dhaka. Photo: MoFA

Akiko made the remarks during a meeting with Bangladesh’s Foreign Adviser, Md. Touhid Hossain, at the Foreign Ministry in Dhaka, according to a press release from the ministry. The Japanese Vice-Minister is currently on a two-day visit to Bangladesh.

During their meeting, the Foreign Adviser expressed his gratitude for Japan’s long-standing support to Bangladesh’s socio-economic development since the country’s independence.

Vice-Minister Akiko emphasized Japan’s continued backing for Bangladesh, particularly during the post-LDC graduation phase. She also highlighted the importance of finalizing the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the two countries to boost trade and investment.

Acknowledging Bangladesh’s positive investment climate, Akiko noted that Japanese companies continue to thrive in the country, despite recent political developments. Over 310 Japanese companies are currently operating in Bangladesh, with expectations that the number will continue to grow.

Foreign Adviser Hossain reiterated Bangladesh’s dedication to enhancing its investment environment. He pointed out that the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) is actively facilitating foreign investments through its One-Stop Service (OSS) system.

Akiko also emphasized the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific region for regional peace and stability. In response, Hossain reiterated Bangladesh’s support for a peaceful Indo-Pacific, emphasizing the principle of freedom of navigation for all parties.

The Foreign Adviser thanked Japan for its continued efforts to address the Rohingya crisis, particularly its support for the repatriation of displaced persons from Bangladesh. He also praised Japan’s humanitarian assistance, including its role in the relocation of Rohingyas to Bhashan Char. Hossain requested Japan’s continued support for the early repatriation of the Rohingya refugees and sought Japanese backing for hosting a high-level conference on the issue in Doha, in collaboration with the United Nations.

The two sides also discussed mutual support and cooperation on election-related matters in international forums.

Concluding the meeting, the Foreign Adviser thanked Vice-Minister Akiko for her visit, expressing hope that her trip would strengthen the already strong bilateral ties between Bangladesh and Japan.